Gambling in San MarinoGambling in San Marino is legal in its land-based as well as online variant, as of February 2017. Laws no. 67/2000 and no. 143/2006 regulate the gambling or the running of games of chance in San Marino. This covers all forms of games such as prize contests, lotteries, games of chance and ability and betting. The Public Institution for Gaming Activities of San Marino, an Autonomous State Entity (established with Law no. 143/2006), operates with the gambling activities under the control and supervision of the Great and General Council and of the Congress of State.The small European principality of San Marino first legalized casino gambling in 1880 as a means to gain revenue to pay down the national debt. Casinos were legal until 1949 when the government issued a ban. The first legal casino reopened in San Marino in 2007, and is enjoyed by locals and foreign tourists. As San Marino has a population of only 32,000, its small gambling industry is supported mostly by foreigners.Online Gambling in San MarinoThe government of San Marino does not issue licenses to online gambling sites, as of February 2017. However, it is legal for citizens to use foreign-operated sites. As the tiny republic is home to only 32,000 people it is not a large market for gambling services, although many residents enjoy the activity.